The researchers called for understanding the determinants that predict lung function growth during childhood and adolescence to prevent diseases later in adulthood…reports Asian Lite News
Increased physical activity and a higher body mass index (BMI) can help fight lung function deficits in early childhood, according to a study on Monday.
The growth of lung function declines in childhood due to allergic conditions and is a clear risk factor for chronic respiratory disease later.
The study, published in the journal Thorax, showed that higher levels of physical activity in early childhood (between the ages of 4 and 7) and higher body mass index at age 4 can help increase lung function growth.
“The key finding of our study is that low lung function in early childhood does not automatically translate into poor lung function in early adulthood, but that accelerated growth can recover early-life lung function deficits and result in normal values in adolescence,” said Sarah Koch, a researcher at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal).
The study analysed data on 1,151 children and adolescents aged 4-18 years. The researchers measured lung function with spirometry, a technique that assesses lung function through the amount of exhaled air.
The researchers called for understanding the determinants that predict lung function growth during childhood and adolescence to prevent diseases later in adulthood.
“Both clinical management and public health policies should support and promote a healthy diet and high levels of physical activity in children with low baseline lung function, suboptimal environmental conditions, or early-life allergies. This can help overcome growth limitations in lung function and improve respiratory health in childhood and adulthood,” Koch said.
Art, music, and other creative outlets have always been shown as a powerful tool to express emotions…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
Trauma is an unfortunate reality that affects children across the globe, regardless of location. In small towns, however, resources for addressing trauma can be limited, making it crucial for parents, caregivers, and communities to step in and provide the support that young minds need.
To combat such issues in rural areas according to Dr. Vishesh Kasliwal, MBBS, DEM, and Founder, of Medyseva, communication is the cornerstone of helping children cope with trauma. He says, “Create a safe and open environment for children to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to share their experiences and concerns. By actively listening and responding with empathy, adults can provide the emotional support that children need. In small towns, tight-knit communities can use this to their advantage. Teachers, neighbours, and friends can work together to create a network of support where children feel comfortable discussing their emotions and experiences.”
Small towns may not always have easy access to mental health professionals, but it’s essential to seek help when needed. “If a child’s trauma symptoms persist or worsen, consider reaching out to local healthcare providers, counsellors, or therapists. Telehealth services may also be an option, enabling children to access help even in remote areas,” says Dr. Kasliwal.
A healthy physical body is necessary for a healthy mental state. The founder of Medyseva – a healthcare startup focusing on telemedicine in Rural India, encourages elders to educate children to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and ensuring they get adequate sleep. “Small towns often have ample outdoor spaces, making it easier to engage in physical activities like hiking, biking, or playing sports. These activities not only improve physical health but also help release endorphins, which can alleviate the symptoms of trauma and stress,” He adds.
Art, music, and other creative outlets have always been shown as a powerful tool to express emotions. Dr. Kasliwal suggests, “Art provides an avenue for self-expression and offers a sense of control, helping children regain a sense of agency over their lives. Encourage children to draw, paint, write, or play music as a way to process their trauma. Community organizations can host an art program or provide spaces where children can engage in creative activities, even if they lack formal art or music education programs.”
In the context of fostering a sense of security, trauma can often disrupt a child’s sense of security and stability. The Medyseva founder says, “In small towns, where a sense of community is often strong, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of routine and consistency. Maintain daily routines, rituals, and traditions that provide a sense of stability in a child’s life. Additionally, small towns can organize community events and activities that promote a sense of belonging and togetherness. Feeling part of a supportive community can significantly contribute to a child’s emotional well-being.”
He adds, “Raising awareness about the impact of trauma on children is essential. Schools, local organizations, and communities in small towns can organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns on trauma and its effects. When parents and caregivers are informed about trauma, they are better equipped to recognize its signs and respond appropriately. Teaching children about emotional well-being and resilience is also vital. By educating them about their emotions and ways to cope with trauma, we empower them to manage their feelings and develop crucial life skills.”
Helping children cope with trauma in small towns requires a collective effort from parents, caregivers, educators, and communities, Let’s create a supportive environment where children can heal and thrive
Dr. Nidaa Khan, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynecology at Life Medical Centre, initiated conversation about the prevalence of obesity among pregnant women…reports Asian Lite News
Lifestyle patterns, social preferences and dietary factors have led to a significant rise in the prevalence of obesity among residents, especially in children, say experts.
Speaking at a Continuing Medical Education (CME) conference conducted by Life Healthcare Group in Dubai recently, they expressed concerns regarding childhood obesity and its far-reaching effects.
Presenting a paper at the conference, Dr. Nasreen Chidhara Pari, Specialist Paediatrics at Life Medical Centre, said, “Childhood obesity has a profound impact on both physical and psychological well-being. Statistics show that the rate of childhood obesity in the UAE has increased from 12 per cent to 17.4 per cent between the years 2018 to 2022. This has, in turn, led to a rise in various preventable illnesses and health risks that are becoming increasingly common in the population.”
With over 250 attendees, the conference focused on raising awareness about the rise of lifestyle diseases and aimed to educate medical professionals on their causes, consequences, and effective control strategies. With a comprehensive agenda featuring 20 presentations, the program covered a diverse range of topics on lifestyle diseases, with a particular focus on childhood obesity and diabetes
Commenting on the conference, Mr. Jayan K, CEO of Life Medical Centres and Clinics, said, “We are happy to organize the CME conference as part of Life Healthcare Group’s ongoing commitment to contribute to the welfare of society by empowering the medical community. These conferences play a pivotal role in fostering knowledge, exchanging insights, and keeping healthcare providers at the forefront of medical advancements. By equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge, we can effectively tackle a wide range of healthcare challenges.”
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 60 per cent of the factors influencing an individual’s health and quality of life are associated with unhealthy lifestyle choices that lead to various health issues, disabilities, and even mortality. Conditions such as metabolic disorders, musculoskeletal problems, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and more can stem from an unhealthy lifestyle.
Dr. Kirti Mohan Marya, Group Medical Director and Chief of Orthopaedics, said, “Lifestyle disorders are growing in prevalence worldwide and they pose a long-term threat to humanity, acting as silent killers. As a prominent healthcare provider in the region, it is our duty to spearhead positive and preventive changes in the field of medicine. Knowledge-sharing platforms like this CME conference play a vital role in ensuring optimal medical care for our patients.”
The conference featured renowned doctors and experts from different Life Medical Centres in the UAE, where they shared their expertise and research in multiple disciplines and highlighted various key lifestyle diseases and health risks, which have become more frequent in their occurrence in recent years. The event also highlighted the need to implement comprehensive strategies to address the increased prevalence of lifestyle diseases. It emphasised evidence-based treatment options for obesity, involving long-term approaches that encompass nutrition, behaviour, and, if necessary, surgery.
Dr. Nidaa Khan, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynecology at Life Medical Centre, initiated conversation about the prevalence of obesity among pregnant women. “Obesity is the most common medical condition among women of reproductive age. Less than half of pregnant women have a normal body mass index. The implications of obesity during pregnancy are frequently overlooked due to the absence of evidence-based treatment options. Effectively managing obesity requires long-term strategies encompassing nutrition, behaviour, and, in some cases, surgery.”
One of the most prominent lifestyle diseases that have seen a dramatic rise in recent years is diabetes. Dr. Mohammed Salman Khan, General Practitioner at Life Medical Centre, said, “Unhealthy lifestyle choices play a significant role in the development of diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes is expected to increase manifold by the year 2045, with an estimated 110 per cent increase in the Middle East and North Africa region. Early identification is essential as it allows individuals to make necessary lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.”
Other speakers at the conference included Dr. Yasmeen Shereef, Specialist Radiologist; Dr. Muhammed Fasil Nalakath, Physiotherapist; Dr. Nithya, Specialist Endodontist; Dr. Sara Arun, Specialist Paediatrician; Dr. Sunita Nain, Specialist Clinical Pathologist; Dr. Nikhilesh Nain, Specialist Paediatrician; Dr. Hannah Jose, General Practitioner; Dr. Maturi Chaitanya, Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist; Dr. Sameer Arora, General Practitioner; Dr. Sanoop George, Specialist Endodontist; Dr. Hudaib Mohammad, Specialist Psychiatrist; Dr. Abhinav Gupta, Specialist Internal Medicine; Dr. Sandeep Thomas, General Medicine; and Dr. Josy Panikulam, Specialist Internal Medicine.
Life Healthcare Group, UAE’s leading homegrown healthcare company, remains committed to combating lifestyle diseases and aims to continue organizing similar CME conferences in the future. The group aims to stay at the forefront of medical advancements and equip healthcare providers with the knowledge required to tackle the challenges arising from this global health crisis.
What a better way to start your day than with a cup of coffee that contains chocolate? Spend some time alone indulging in delicious coffee drinks with chocolate as the base. Girish Chandra, Beverage Training Manager, Lavazza India, shares some delectable recipes to remember your fondest childhood chocolate memories!
HEAVENLY MOCHA SHAKE
Category: Cold Beverage
Your favourite vanilla shake with chocolate and fresh espresso
Serve Ware: 360 ml Pilsner glass or Linz glass
Ingredients
* Milk (100 ml)
* Espresso (1 Shot — 30ml)
* Vanilla ice-cream 2 scoops (200 ml)
* HCF — Chocolate syrup (30ml)
* Ice cubes 80gms (around 5 to 6 cubes)
Method
* Blend together milk and vanilla ice-cream in a Hamilton blender for 30-40 seconds until smooth
* Take a pilsner glass, glaze the glass with HCF, add ice cubes and pour the mixture into the glass
* Pour the espresso on the top of mixture
BLACK FOREST COFFEE BLAST
Category: Cold Beverage
Your favourite Dessert cold coffee with cream
Serve Ware: 360 ml Pilsner glass or Linz glass
Ingredients
* Milk (100 ml)
* Espresso (1 Shot — 30ml)
* Vanilla ice-cream 2 scoops (200 ml)
* HCF — Chocolate syrup (20ml)
* Ice cubes (40gms) (around 3 to 4 cubes)
* Whipped cream (1 shot — 30gms)
* Choco chip muffin (1 muffin — 80gms)
* Monin Irish syrup (15ml)
Method
* Blend together milk, Espresso, ice cubes and vanilla ice-cream in Hamilton blender for 20 seconds. Then add half portion of muffin, Irish flavour and blend about 10 to 15 seconds
* Take a pilsner glass, in the bottom of the glass pour HCF roll the glass to spread HCF, pour mixture into glass, add shot of whipped cream, take another half portion of muffin cut in to two pieces keep on the top of whipped cream.
* Garnish with drop of Irish syrup and sprinkle muffin chunks FRAPPE BLAST
Category: Cold Beverage
Your favourite indulgence cold coffee
Serve Ware: 360 ml Pilsner glass or Linz glass Ingredients:
Ingredients
* Milk (100 ml)
* Espresso (1 Shot — 30ml)
* Vanilla ice-cream (3 scoop — 300 ml)
* HCF — Chocolate syrup (20 ml)
* Whipped cream (1 shot — 30 gms)
* Chocolate chips to garnish
Method
* Blend together milk, espresso and 2 vanilla ice-creams in Hamilton blender or Blendtec for 30-40 seconds until smooth
* Take a pilsner glass, glaze glass with HCF pour mixture into it. Add 1 scoop of vanilla ice- cream on the top of mixture
* Put 1 shot of whipped cream and garnish with chocolate chips
HAZELNUT MOCHA
Category: Hot Beverage
Your favourite Hot coffee with chocolate and hazelnut
Serve Ware: 240 ml Kenyan tea cup
Ingredients
* Milk (140 ml)
* Espresso (1 shot (30ml)
* HCF — Chocolate syrup (30ml)
* Hazelnut Flavour (20ml)
Method
Take fresh shot of espresso into Kenyan tea cup, put HCF into it, froth the milk pour on the top of espresso and add hazelnut flavour
(Girish Chandra, Beverage Training Manager, Lavazza India)
Have a positive attitude about the physical activity when your child is involved and encourage them to take an interest in new activities…reports N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
Children, like adults, require some form of exercise in their daily routine to stay healthy. Your children are watching you and attempting to mimic everything you do, good or bad. As a result, it is critical to have an exercise routine in place in order to instil the habit of exercise in your children from the start. Encourage your children by telling them about the benefits of exercise or by finding fun ways to exercise.
0 age should spend more time playing on the floor.
1 – 3 should exercise for at least three hours per day. This entails playing aggressively.
3 – 5 years old should exercise for at least three hours per day.
5 -18 should engage in at least one hour of moderate to vigorous exercise per day, as well as a few hours of light exercise. This should include activities that strengthen the muscles and bones at least three times per week.
18+ should engage in a mix of moderate and vigorous exercise to ensure adequate overall activity. They should also engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week.
Asha Vaghasia, Founder and Parenting Coach, We Positive Parenting, Ahmedabad commenting on fitness across young age says, “As a parent, all you can do is create a fit environment. To encourage your child, you can set up a family routine. The activities you do as a family have a profound effect on children. Encourage them to do their chores by doing your chores yourself. Limit the use of T.V and smartphones and encourage the children to do the same. Start walking to the nearby shops instead of driving, and the kids will follow suit. Instead of watching television after dinner, encourage your child to set up and lead a few fun activities that they can do with friends and family. I have seen my parents wake up early and workout on a regular basis which inspired me in my childhood and it led me to run marathons today and further ahead I have put my children into vigorous sports since a very young age and today exercising and being active is an essential part of their lifestyle.”
Asha shares ways which ensures that your family moves at least for 60 minutes each day. With activities ranging from informal, busy to planned sports:
1. Start early. Young children love to play and be active. Encouraging more safe and informal movement and play can help build a solid foundation for an active lifestyle.
2. Set a good example by living an active life for yourself.
3. Make exercise a part of your daily routine by taking family trips or playing sports together.
4. Give your children ideas and things that encourage exercise.
5. Exercising can be done with a lot of fun like dancing on a Bollywood dance number, playing blocks or simple activities like walking a pet or riding a bicycle to get milk.
6. Take young people to places where they can work, such as community parks, community baseball stadiums, or basketball courts.
7. Have a positive attitude about physical activity when your child is involved and encourage them to take an interest in new activities.
8. Make bodywork fun. Recreational activities can be anything your child enjoys, organized or unorganized. Activities 9. can range from group sports or individual activities to leisure activities such as walking, running, skiing, cycling, swimming, playing activities, or playing free time.
10. Make sure they are safe! Always provide protections like helmets, wrist pads, or knee pads for activities such as cycling, or scooters, skateboarding, roller skating, rock-wall, and other activities where there is a high risk of injury. Also, make sure that the activities are appropriate for your child’s age.
